Chicken Chimichanga
A Chicken Chimichanga is a popular Tex-Mex dish consisting of a flour tortilla filled with seasoned chicken, cheese, and other ingredients, which is then folded into a parcel and deep-fried until golden and crispy. The filling often includes spices like cumin and chili powder, and it is typically served with toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or cheese sauce. It originated in the Southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona, as a fried variation of the traditional Mexican burrito.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is generally high in carbohydrates from the flour tortilla and fat due to the deep-frying process, while also providing a substantial amount of protein from the chicken. A single serving can range from 700 to over 1,000 calories, depending on the size and specific fillings, making it a very calorie-dense meal.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 550 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbs | 45 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 1100 mg |
| Potassium | 400 mg |
| Calcium | 150 mg |
| Iron | 3 mg |
| Vitamin A | 150 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 10 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.5 mg |
| Folate | 60 mcg |
| Magnesium | 45 mg |
Per 1 chimichanga (approx. 250 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, the chimichanga is a quintessential example of Tex-Mex cuisine, representing the fusion of Mexican culinary traditions with American ingredients and cooking methods, specifically the technique of deep-frying. Nutritionally, its unique preparation method transforms a typically soft burrito into a crispy, high-calorie dish, making it a popular indulgence rather than an everyday staple.
